PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY SCHEDULE BEGINNING TO TAKE SHAPE

Despite last season still very much fresh in the memory some clubs are wasting no time in drawing up their preparations for the new campaign with a number already announcing their summer schedule of friendlies.

At the time of writing the pre-season action kicks off at Lakeview Park when Loughgall entertain Europa League bound Glenavon.

Indeed, the Villagers are facing a number of top flight opponents with Warrenpoint Town and Dungannon Swifts visiting while Dean Smith's men make the short journey south to face Darren Mullen's newly promoted Newry City.

Other games include a derby with Armagh City and a trip to Fermanagh to lock horns with IFA Junior Cup holders Enniskillen Rangers.

Larne have also announced details of their schedule, the highlight being a clash with Danske Bank Premiership champions Crusaders at Seaview as well as games, all away from Inver Park, against Warrenpoint Town and Dungannon Swifts.

Matthew Tipton's Portadown have a busy summer in front of them.

The club have announced the inaugural George Richardson Memorial Cup, a 'round-robin' competition in memory of the long serving kit man and club stalwart who passed away last season.

Involving the Ports and three other local clubs, namely Annagh United, Hanover and Tandragee Rovers, the tournament will be held from July 7th to 28th.

Apart from that, the Ports also have games pencilled in against, amongst others, Lisburn Distillery, Banbridge Town, Queen's University and Ards.

And Ards also provide the opposition for Ballyclare Comrades, one of a number of Premiership clubs to visit Dixon Park with Ballymena United and Glentoran also scheduled to travel to the Co. Antrim town.